Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1
As the fog began to lift, I focused on the dim outline of the steeple and had to smile.
The one landmark that coalesced into solidarity was a church steeple. How like God to show up when I needed stability. It was just the reminder I craved. Recently, at the ACFW conference, my sense of direction had failed—along with my self-confidence—and I’d found myself hopelessly turned around. This really shouldn’t have been a big deal. After all, I was safe inside the hotel convention center. But, with my emotions on a roller coaster of ups and downs, I stood at the window unconsciously searching for something to anchor my world.
A writing conference is fraught with emotional highs and lows. One minute you find yourself full of confidence in your abilities when an interview goes well. Then, fifteen minutes later, you are certain you should pack up your computer and start washing cars for a living.
I took a deep breath and sighed out a prayer of thanksgiving. It was God who’d called me to this life of pen, pain and perseverance, and He would see me through.
When I put my confidence in Him, everything else falls into place. The expectations of this world recede into proper perspective, and I can feel God's joy as I exercise the gift He's given me. When my life begins to tilt out of control, the only place I need to look for direction is up.
Edie, what a great devotional today! This is a great reminder for me today. Even at the writer's retreat, I did feel like my emotions were on a roller coaster a few times but I know the one who I need to get my direction from! Thank you so much for not only teaching what you know agout writing but also teaching the truth of God's Word! Love you my sweet friend!
ReplyDeleteLovely image of the steeple in the fog—such a vivid reminder of His love and guidance in the clouds of doubt. Thank you for this inspired devotional.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Edie. This is just what I needed after the week I've had. I felt like giving up and just not bothering with all the mess of this life of writing. But I know God told me I have to do this! I may doubt myself and my ability--but that's not what is required. It's all Him. He can take whatever little bit I have and turn it into exactly what He needs it to be.
ReplyDeleteWhat an awesome reminder. Thank you for reminding me that I'm right where I should be.
ReplyDeleteHow timely! Thank you for reminding me that I am a tool in His hand, and no matter how broken or lost I feel He has all the pieces, and one day it will ALL make sense :)
ReplyDeleteLovely post, Edie. A great reminder that when God calls us to do something, we need to remain obedient to His calling. He is faithful, no matter how many highs and lows we experience. He endures them with us.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great post! Thanks so much!
ReplyDeleteAnother great reminder. I'm running up to several huge deadlines this week and am feeling completely overwhelmed. Your words reminded me to put my faith in Him, and then keep plugging along.
ReplyDeleteI love that you saw the steeple through the fog just when you needed it most. God does that for me when things in my life cloud my vision of Him. He puts someone or something in my view to remind me He is there.
ReplyDeleteLove this. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI'm not happy you question yourself and your writing ability (you're so talented) but I am relieved not to be alone with the emotions that accompany a writing career. Thanks for your transparency. And for the reminder that It's God, not an editor/publisher, who determines my way - I love your encouragement.
ReplyDeleteYour article spoke to my heart. Thank you for your candidness.
ReplyDelete